about the ssat

The Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT)​is used by approximately 500 private schools throughout the U.S. and abroad as an admission test.

​The test is administered on two levels:• Lower (for students currently in grades 5-7)• Upper (for students currently in grades 8-11)

The SSAT consists of two parts: a brief essay, and four multiple-choice sections.EssayIncludes one topic statement which you will be asked to support or argue, using specific examples from personal experience, current events, history or literature. This portion is not scored by SSAT and a copy of the writing sample is not included with the report sent to students.Multiple-Choice• Quantitative (Math)Consists of two sections of 25 questions each. You will be required to do math computation similar to what you do in school or what is useful in everyday life.• VerbalConsists of 30 synonym and 30 analogy questions.• Reading ComprehensionIncludes 40 questions based on about 7 reading passages. These questions measure your ability to read quickly and comprehend what you read.All questions on the SSAT are equal in value, and scores are based on the number of questions you answer correctly minus one-quarter point for each question you answer incorrectly. You may only give one response to each question. Although no points are awarded or deducted for questions left unanswered, you will be penalized for questions answered incorrectly or with more than one response.

How do you read your scores?

Your SSAT score report will provide detailed explanations to help you understand each of your scores, including

Scaled Scores Verbal, Quantitative, Reading, and Total

Scale for grades 5-7: 440-710 (V/Q/R), 1320-2130 (Total)

Scale for grades 8-11: 500-800 (V/Q/R), 1500-2400 (Total)​

SSAT Percentile Ranks for each category

​The SSAT ranks (1-99%) compare your scores to those of other students who have taken the SSAT in the past three years.

​For example, if your Verbal SSAT Percentile is 65%, you scored equal or better in the Verbal section than 65% of students (of your gender and grade) who took the SSAT in the past three years.

​Estimated National Percentile Ranks (grades 5-9 only) The national ranks (1-99%) compare your performance to the national student population, not only students who have taken the SSAT.Predicted 12th Grade SAT Score (grades 7-10 only)

how do you use school scores?

Schools use your scores in different ways: to estimate your ability to do work in a private school; to compare your performance with other applicants for admission or with your present academic record; and to help you improve skills prior to college admissions testing. Each school evaluates your scores according to its own standards and requirements. Please contact individual schools for more information.​

*** EnvisionPrep SSAT program is designed to help you with your overall academic ability, and our outstanding staff will lead you in subjects of Chinese, English, and Math. With our program, you will form a base foundation for your boarding school years. Please conct our office for more information.